we were all square

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we were all square" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that everyone involved is even or has settled any debts or disputes. Example: "After discussing our differences, we were all square and could move forward as friends."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

General Conversation

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

We were all square on the 15th, with me hanging on by my fingertips.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

"I don't know that we're related but... actually our attorney had to talk to them and make sure we were all squared away with the name change and all that stuff".

Huffington Post

We're all square once again.

The Guardian - Sport

We're all square once more!

The Guardian - Sport

We're all square and Murray will be feeling very pleased with himself after that set.

The Guardian - Sport

Farrell knocks over from under the posts and we're all square.

The Guardian - Sport

We're all square at 2-2 in the #Superclasico Copa Libertadores final as the away side hit back from a set-piece.

The Guardian - Sport

So we are all square in Cardiff, but you fancy it will not stay like that for the full 90 minutes.

The Telegraph

Westwood is also in for three, so Hansen is able to give a tricky 15-foot downhiller a run at the hole, but he doesn't account for the left-to-right break and we're all square without drama.

The Guardian - Sport

We're all square.

BBC

Drama in Huddersfield where we're all square with time running out.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we were all square" to clearly indicate that all outstanding obligations or scores have been settled or balanced. This is applicable in contexts ranging from financial transactions to competitive situations.

Common error

Avoid using "we were all square" when referring to complex emotional resolutions or agreements. This phrase is most appropriately applied to scenarios where balance or settlement is the core concept, not nuanced interpersonal dynamics.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we were all square" functions as an idiomatic expression used to indicate that all debts, scores, or obligations have been settled, creating a state of balance between the parties involved. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Sports

15%

General Conversation

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we were all square" serves as a concise way to express that all obligations have been settled and a balanced state has been achieved. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, and examples from reputable news sources like The Guardian and BBC illustrate its use in contexts ranging from sports to general negotiations. Although suitable for neutral settings, consider more formal alternatives such as "we settled our accounts" or "we reached a consensus" in academic or business environments. Be mindful of its primary meaning, focusing on balance and settlement rather than nuanced emotional agreements. It is a helpful phrase to indicate closure and resolution clearly.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are all square now

Adds emphasis to the present state of being even or balanced.

we were even

Uses a simpler adjective to convey the state of being balanced or having settled a debt.

we are quits

An informal expression indicating that debts or favors have been balanced.

we settled our accounts

More explicit about resolving financial or other obligations.

we have balanced the score

Uses a sporting metaphor to indicate that the competition is now even.

we reached a consensus

Focuses on agreement after discussion, rather than a numerical balance.

we've cleared the slate

Implies that past grievances or debts have been forgiven or resolved, allowing a fresh start.

we came to an understanding

Highlights a mutual agreement, often after resolving a misunderstanding.

we are on equal footing

Indicates a level playing field or balanced situation.

we have no outstanding issues

Emphasizes the absence of unresolved problems.

FAQs

What does "we were all square" mean?

The phrase "we were all square" signifies that all debts, scores, or obligations between parties have been settled, resulting in a balanced state. It implies that everyone is even.

Is it appropriate to use "we were all square" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "we were all square" might sound informal for certain business or academic contexts. Consider using more formal alternatives like "we settled our accounts" or "we reached a consensus" in those settings.

What can I say instead of "we were all square"?

You can use alternatives like "we were even", "we settled our accounts", or "we are on equal footing" depending on the context.

When is it inappropriate to use the phrase "we were all square"?

Avoid using "we were all square" in situations where emotional resolution or abstract agreement is involved. It's best suited for scenarios concerning tangible balances or settled scores, not nuanced interpersonal dynamics.